Numbers 35:6 introduces the six cities of refuge for the manslayer; verse 14 specifies their distribution — three on each side of the Jordan.

Deuteronomy 4:41-43 records Moses setting apart the three eastern cities of refuge, enacting this command.

Deuteronomy 19:8-10 expands on this command, promising additional cities of refuge if the land enlarges — extending the same provision.

Joshua 20:7-9 records the actual designation of these six cities, fulfilling the command given here.